GNPs - Page 4

University of Illinois researchers have used graphene to develop a rapid, ultrasensitive test using a paper-based electrochemical sensor that can detect the presence of the virus in less than five minutes.

Currently, we are experiencing a once-in-a-century life-changing event, said bioengineering graduate student and co-leader of the study, Maha Alafeef. We are responding to this global need from a holistic approach by developing multidisciplinary tools for early detection and diagnosis and treatment for SARS-CoV-2.

Directa Plus, which has recently signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with lithium sulphur batteries company NexTech Batteries, has announced that using its G+ pristine graphene nanoplatelets, NexTech managed to achieve more than 400 watt-hours per kilogram in a practical system, "the holy grail" for many battery applications.

NexTech produced several prototypes using its proprietary cathode and electrolyte materials producing 410Wh/kg of specific energy at a weight only slightly below 30 grams. For comparison, standard lithium-ion batteries have an energy density of 100-265 Wh/kg.

Researchers from the University of Nottingham’s Centre for Additive Manufacturing (CfAM) have reported a breakthrough in the study of 3D printing electronic devices with graphene.

Characterization of the fully inkjet‐printed graphene/hBN FET. Photo from article

The scientists utilized an inkjet-based 3D printing technique to deposit inks that contained flakes of graphene, in a promising step towards replacing single-layer graphene as a contact material for 2D metal semiconductors.

Italy-based Directa Plus recently signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with NexTech Batteries, a company active in the field of lithium sulphur batteries based in Nevada, US.

Under the terms of the agreement, Directa would supply its G+ graphene nanoplatelets to Nextech Batteries.

Applied Graphene Materials recently announced its plans to launch a new graphene-enhanced car polishing product in partnership with Infinity Wax, a specialist car care distributor.

Infinity Wax will start to market the new QDX Graphene Detailing Spray in the fourth quarter of 2020, according to Applied Graphene Materials.

Haydale has announced that, following the announcement on March 2020 regarding its graphene nano-platelets having been incorporated into iCraft’s cosmetic face mask sheet, a contract is now in place for 1 metric tonne of graphene nano-platelets (GNP-02-STD) in the first year, 2 metric tonnes in the second year, and three metric tonnes in the third year. This is an exclusive agreement for the mask application within the APAC region, excluding Thailand.

Haydale has signed a worldwide exclusivity contract to supply functionalized graphene nano-platelets for use in these sheet masks that are face-shaped sheet fabrics which utilize the thermal and electrical conductivity of graphene to help the skin absorb its contents through bioelectric currents. In addition, Haydale said it has completed a GBP3.0 million equity raise.

Thomas Swan has signed an exclusive agency agreement with Concrene.

Thomas Swan’s Graphene Nano Platelet (GNP) products have been tested in a number of concrete dispersions by Concrene and have shown compressive strength improvements of greater than 20% with loading of less than 1% by weight.

Haydale has announced that its graphene nanoplatelets have been incorporated into iCraft’s recently launched cosmetic face mask sheet. These sheet masks are face-shaped sheet fabrics which utilize the thermal and electrical conductivity of graphene to help the skin absorb its contents through bio-electric currents.

Haydale has supplied graphene to iCraft since May 2019 for development work in a number of areas including cosmetic use. iCraft, based in South Korea, is a global technology company with interests in security and network solutions as well as the health and beauty sector. Following intense research and rigorous testing, iCraft manages to report zero harmful substances for graphene-based products, and has applied for three related patents.

Thomas Swan recently announced that the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) in Manchester has produced a fibre using Polyamide 6 and 0.2% loading of Thomas Swan Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNP’s).

GEIC successfully extruded and subsequently spun 1.5km of the fibre with 0.39mm diameter. This was said to bode well for continuing Thomas Swan's development of graphene in nanocomposites. Typical applications for this type of monofibre include carbon brushes for motors, seat belts or fishing lines.

This is a sponsored article by Dr Richard Collins, IDTechEx

Graphene is on the cusp of significant market growth; the opportunities are exciting and diverse, each with significant potential. Graphene and 2D Materials Europe 2020 (13-14 May, Berlin) is the largest B2B event on the topic with a dedicated focus on the commercial frontiers. www.GrapheneEurope.tech

There is often confusion surrounding the types of graphene, commercial status, and their target markets. This article will briefly summarise each and showcase what to expect at this event.